How can you benefit from using creative problem solving?

1 What is creative problem solving?

Creative problem solving (CPS) is a method of approaching problems in a flexible and imaginative way. It involves using different techniques and tools to generate, evaluate, and implement ideas that are novel and useful. CPS is based on the assumption that every problem has more than one possible solution and that you can improve your results by exploring different perspectives and alternatives.

2 Why is creative problem solving important?

Creative problem solving is a valuable tool as it allows you to overcome obstacles, adapt to changing circumstances, and create value for yourself and others. Through creative problem solving, you can sharpen your critical thinking and analytical skills, boost your confidence and motivation, develop your communication and collaboration skills, expand your knowledge and experience, and increase your satisfaction and happiness.

3 How can you use creative problem solving?

Creative problem solving can be used for any type of problem, regardless of size or complexity. To do this effectively, you should follow a systematic process that allows you to clarify the problem, generate ideas, evaluate options, and implement solutions. This four-step model of CPS is a simple and effective process to use: first, define the problem and identify the goals, criteria, and constraints; second, brainstorm as many ideas as possible and select the most promising ones; third, elaborate and refine the selected ideas and test their feasibility and desirability; fourth, plan and execute the best solution and monitor and evaluate the results.

4 What are some tips for creative problem solving?

To make the most of creative problem solving, it's important to be curious and open-minded, asking questions and seeking information to challenge assumptions. You should also alternate between generating many ideas and narrowing down the best ones, using humor, imagination, and trial and error to explore possibilities. Additionally, it's essential to be collaborative and constructive, seeking feedback from others and building on each other's ideas. Finally, you should be flexible and resilient, adapting to changing situations, learning from failures, and celebrating successes.

5 What are some examples of creative problem solving?

Creative problem solving can be applied to any domain and context, as demonstrated by the examples of Airbnb, Lego, and Spotify. To tackle their lack of customers and funding, Airbnb created cereal boxes with political themes during the 2008 US presidential election. Lego used creative problem solving to revamp their business by involving their customers, employees, and partners in co-creating new products, services, and experiences. Spotify also used creative problem solving to disrupt the music industry with a freemium model that allowed users to access millions of songs for free or with a premium subscription. Moreover, they employed data and algorithms to personalize recommendations and playlists.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?